Apparatus and method for recycling mobile phones

ABSTRACT

A recycling kiosk for recycling and financial remuneration for submission of a mobile telephone is disclosed herein. The recycling kiosk includes an inspection area with a plurality of white walls in order to perform a visual analysis of the mobile telephone for determination of a value of the mobile telephone. The visual analysis inspects the LCD screen of the mobile phone to determine if the LCD screen is damaged. The recycling kiosk also includes a processor, a display and a user interface.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/727,624, filed on Mar. 19, 2010, which isa continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/573,089, filed on Oct. 2, 2009, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application 61/102,304 filed on Oct. 2, 2008 and61/183,510 filed on Jun. 2, 2009, each of which is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to recycling of mobile phones.More specifically, the present invention relates to a kiosk for visuallyanalyzing mobile phones and providing remuneration to an owner forrecycling of the mobile phone.

2. Description of the Related Art

There has been a large increase in the number of electronic devices usedby the typical consumer. These devices include cell phones, PDA's, mp3players, GPS devices, cameras, beepers, remote controls, cordlessphones, calculators, etc. The rapid pace at which new technology andmodels of electronic devices are introduced creates a situation wheremany consumers upgrade or replace one or more recyclable device on afrequent basis. Often, the consumer does not dispose of the priorelectronic device, but rather just stops using it and begins using thenew device. This may happen over several generations of such devices.

In addition to the electronic devices mentioned above, there are manyother types of devices that have relatively high frequency replacementrates, including portable mobile electronic devices, such as cellphones, MP3 players, etc, and non-portable electronic devices, such ascomputers, printers, and the like. In addition to electronic devices,there are content based digital media such as games on CD, DVD, orcartridge, or entertainment mass storage items such as CDs, DVDs,BluRay, etc. There is a need for handling of such items in anecologically friendly manner, both via recycling or by proper disposalprocedures. It has not been convenient for owners of electronic devicesto either recycle such devices or to properly dispose of such devices.There is currently little incentive for a device owner to “do the rightthing” with a used device. When the owner just stops using a device andsimply puts it in storage: the opportunity for recycling or re-use byanother party is lost. If the owner just throws the device away innormal trash containers, the proper recycling or safe disposing of thedevice is thwarted.

One particular problem associated with this phenomenon can beillustrated by an example of mobile phones. There are more than 3.6billion mobile phone users in the world with an annual growth of 10% perannum. The replacement rate of mobile handsets is roughly every 18months as new models have more features and new standards evolve.Wireless carriers also offer new phones below cost, or free, asincentives to get customers to sign lucrative two-year service contractsensuring a constant build-up of old mobile phones. Old mobile phones andother mobile devices (pagers, PDAs) present a growing threat to theenvironment. As of 2007, there are more than 750 million mobile phoneswaiting to be recycled in the US, either in drawers or already in thewaste stream. Another 150+ million or so are added every year. Once inthe waste stream, these devices may leak Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Arsenicand other toxic substances into the water supply. Municipalities oftenincinerate their waste, instantly putting these toxic elements into theair, and they return to earth in rain water. A problem that needs to besolved is to make it easy and accessible for the public to recycle orresell their mobile phones and other recyclable devices. Two reasons whymobile phones are not being recycled or resold are difficult access torecycling or reselling facilities, and secondly security concerns aboutthe information stored on the mobile phone. In addition to mobilephones, the same problems apply to many other electronic devices.

Technology has not yet provided a resolution to this problem. Oneinvention is Bishop, U.S. Pat. No. 4,951,308 for Automated Vending OfCellular Hand-Held Telephones And Cellular Telephone Services, whichdiscloses a vending machine that dispenses cellular telephones purchasedby consumers through the vending machine. Bishop essentially adds to theproblem by making it easier to acquire mobile phones.

Taylor et al., U.S. Patent Publication Number 2009/0190142, for a MethodAnd System For Connecting A Data Storage Device To A Kiosk, discloses akiosk with a docking port and an optical recognition device foridentifying a data port on a data storage device. Taylor is directed atprinting digital images at a photo kiosk.

The prior art has failed to recognize the problems associated withrecycling mobile phones in a manner that is enticing to a consumer yetfinancially rewarding to the recycler. Further, the prior art has failedto determine an automated means for visually inspecting a LCD screen ofa mobile phone to determine if the LCD screen is damaged.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention enables one to securely recycle, donate, trade-in,and/or sell mobile phones in a publicly accessible location. In anembodiment where mobile phones are recycled, the invention is used by amobile phone owner to submit his/her mobile phone for recycling via arecycling kiosk and receive compensation in some manner. Thecompensation might be dispersed via cash, voucher, credit or debit card,or other magnetic or electronic transaction methods.

In one embodiment, a method for conducting the collection of previouslyused mobile phones for the purpose of recycling and refurbishing uses akiosk in a publicly accessible location. The kiosk displays one or moretransaction options. The method further includes interaction between theuser and the kiosk display options which may include powering the mobilephone, testing and optical scanning, erasing of the stored data in themobile phone, determination and acceptance by consumer of compensationfor the mobile phone's value. The method may further include selectionby consumers through interaction with the kiosk a variety ofcompensation methods including dispensing of cash, or redeemable vouchervia coupon, or credit card debiting or crediting, electronic donation touser specified charity or charities, or other electronic paymentmethods.

One aspect of the present invention is a method for analysis of a mobilephone and financial remuneration to a user for submission of the mobilephone. The method includes positioning a mobile phone in an inspectionarea of a recycling kiosk. The inspection area has a plurality of whitewalls. The method also includes placing the mobile phone in a cameramode wherein a LCD screen of the mobile phone is illuminated in white tovisually enhance the appearance of any defects in the LCD screen. Themethod also includes inspecting an image of the LCD screen of the mobilephone obtained by at least one camera disposed in the inspection area todetermine if the LCD screen of the mobile phone has any defects and todefine an analyzed mobile phone. The method also includes determining avalue for the analyzed mobile phone.

The method may also include performing an electrical analysis of themobile phone. The method may also include powering up the mobile phone.The method may also include measuring the luminescence from the LCDscreen of the mobile phone. The recycling kiosk further comprises ahousing, a user interface, a plurality of electrical connectors, and aprocessor. At least one electrical connector of the plurality ofelectrical connectors is capable of connecting to the mobile phoneplaced within the inspection area; at least one electrical connectordispensing device for dispensing one electrical connector of theplurality of electrical connectors to the inspection area. The processoris positioned within the housing and in communication with the at leastone camera, each of the plurality of electrical connectors and the userinterface. The processor is configured to identify the brand and modelnumber of the mobile phone based on at least one of the information fromthe user and the images from the at least one camera. The processor isconfigured to determine the at least one electrical connector todispense to the inspection area. The processor is configured to performa visual analysis of the display of the mobile phone. The processor isconfigured to perform an electrical analysis of the mobile phone. Theprocessor is configured to determine a financial remuneration value forthe mobile phone.

Another aspect of the present invention is a method for analysis of amobile phone using a term displayed on a LCD screen of the mobile phone.The method includes positioning a mobile phone in an inspection area ofa recycling kiosk. The method also includes powering up the mobilephone. The method also includes inputting a term on the mobile phone.The term includes a plurality of characters. The term is displayed onthe LCD screen of the mobile phone. The method also includes inspectingan image of the LCD screen of the mobile phone obtained by at least onecamera disposed in the inspection area utilizing an optical characterrecognition program of the recycling kiosk to determine if the LCDscreen of the mobile phone has any defects and to define an analyzedmobile phone. The method also includes determining a value for theanalyzed mobile phone. The term is preferably at least one of atelephone number or a word. Inputting the term preferably includesdialing a number on the keypad of the mobile phone. The method canfurther include performing an electrical analysis of the mobile phone.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for analysis ofa mobile phone using a known image. The method includes positioning amobile phone in an inspection area of a recycling kiosk. The method alsoincludes powering up the mobile phone. The method also includesdisplaying a known image on a LCD screen of the mobile phone. The methodalso includes comparing the known image on the LCD screen of the mobilephone with a stored duplicate of the known image stored on the recyclingkiosk to determine any defects in the LCD screen of the mobile phone andto define an analyzed mobile phone. The method also includes determininga value for the analyzed mobile phone. The known image is preferably astart-up image for the carrier of the mobile phone. Alternatively, theknown image is an image of a national park.

Having briefly described the present invention, the above and furtherobjects, features and advantages thereof will be recognized by thoseskilled in the pertinent art from the following detailed description ofthe invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of an embodiment of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a system of a network of recyclingkiosks.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of an operation of recycling a mobile phoneusing a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an operation of recycling a mobile phoneusing a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 5A is an image on a display screen of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 5B is an image on a display screen of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 5C is an image on a display screen of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 5D is an image on a display screen of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 5E is an image on a display screen of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the inspection area of a recyclingkiosk.

FIG. 6A is an isolated view of an inspection area of a recycling kioskwith a mobile phone positioned within a field of view of a camera forvisual inspection.

FIG. 7 illustrates an internal back of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 8 is an isolated view of an inspection area of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 8A is an isolated view of an electrical connector dispenser withmultiple electrical connectors.

FIG. 8B is an isolated view of an inspection area of a recycling kioskwith a mobile phone connected to an electrical connector.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the components of a recycling kiosk.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart of a method for analyzing a mobile phone.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart of a method for analyzing a mobile phone.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart of a method for analyzing a mobile phone.

FIG. 13 is an isolated view of a LCD screen of a mobile phoneillustrating a white screen.

FIG. 14 is an isolated view of a LCD screen of a mobile phoneillustrating a telephone number.

FIG. 15 is an isolated view of a LCD screen of a mobile phoneillustrating a national park.

FIG. 16 is an isolated view of a mobile phone in an inspection area of arecycling kiosk illustrating a field of view of a camera of the mobilephone.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention allows for automatic visual analysis of a mobile phone todetermine if a LCD screen of the mobile is damaged in order to ascertaina value for recycling the mobile phone. The method for analyzing amobile phone is preferably performed at a recycling kiosk. Mobile phonesare preferably partitioned into three basic shapes: 1) a flip phone orclam shell type such as the MOTOROLA RAZR; 2) a slider phone whichexposes a keyboard or screen such as the MOTOROLA DROID; and 3) a barshape phone such as the Apple iPHONE or the Research in MotionBLACKBERRY. The invention is also utilized with a network of kiosks inpublic spaces that perform a combination of recycling processing stepsthat receive, identify, visually inspect, electrically test,electrically erase, grade quality, containerize (bag), label, andinventory recyclable electronic devices. Each kiosk determines some formof compensation to an owner of the device. This compensation ispreferably in the form of a direct payment, a credit on an account, adonation to a charity, a discount coupon for future purchases, or somesimilar form of compensation. The device owner has the choice to acceptthe offered compensation or reverse the transaction and retrieve thedevice.

In the following description, an example is given with respect to mobilephones. However, those skilled in the pertinent art will recognize thatthe system can be implemented with any number of other devices that havea LCD screen, without departing from the spirit and scope of the system.

FIG. 1 illustrates a partially schematic front isometric view of arecycling kiosk 100 for analyzing a mobile phone and financialremuneration to a user for submission of the mobile phone. The kiosk 100is of a typical size and shape of a vending machine, such as a sodamachine, coin changing machine, can recycling machine, or other vendingmachines.

The kiosk 100 has a housing 105 to protect the internal components ofthe kiosk 100 and to secure mobile phones submitted for recycling. Thehousing 105 is preferably constructed of a metal material, such as steelor aluminum, to prevent authorized access to the kiosk 100.

The recycling kiosk 100 preferably includes a sealable mobile phoneinspection area 106, bill and voucher acceptor/dispenser 107, cardreader and receipt dispenser 104, mobile phone collector for mobilephones to be refurbished 112, mobile phone collection receptacle 108(quick drop) for mobile phones to be recycled and computing andcommunications facility (not shown).

The inspection area 106 is preferably designed to permit a detailedvisual inspection of a mobile phone and a detailed electrical inspectionof a mobile phone. The size of the inspection area 106 is preferably 30centimeters (“cm”) in length, by 30 cm in width and 20 cm in height. Thewalls of the inspection area are preferably white in order to practiceone particular aspect of the present invention.

The couplings from the kiosk 100 and to a remote computer are preferablya single coupling to a communications network such as the internet viawired LAN, wireless LAN, cellular or any other proprietarycommunications system. The Kiosk 100 preferably includes a processor 160for processing the information obtained from the mobile phone and forcontrolling the components of the kiosk 100. Preferably, the processor160 is a standard personal computer (“PC”) or other type of embeddedcomputer running any operating system such as Linux or MAC OS. Theprocessor 160 is most preferably a small form factor PC with integratedhard disk drive (“HDD”), central processing unit (“CPU”) and universalserial bus (“USB”) ports to communicate with the other components of thekiosk 100. One most preferred CPU is a DELL PC OPTIPLEX 780.Alternatively, the processing means is a microprocessor with astandalone motherboard which interfaces to a discrete HDD, power supplyand the other components of the kiosk 100. The kiosk 100 preferablyincludes a memory 161 or other storage device, such as a disk drive,that stores the executable applications, test software, databases andother software required to operate the recycling kiosk 100.

The external communication component for the kiosk 100 preferablyincludes a wired Ethernet to provide connection to the internet, oralternatively the external communication component includes a wirelessmodem such as GSM, CDMA, 3G and 4G technologies for data communications.

The kiosk 100 preferably also includes a bar code reader 125,bag/package dispenser 120, fingerprint reader 128, and digital signaturepad 130. Referring to FIG. 6, the inspection area 106 preferablyincludes one or more cameras 601-604, and optionally includesmagnification tools (i.e. magnifying glass), bar code scanners, weightscales, heat detectors, UV reader/detector, and the like.

One preferred method of the present invention is illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 10. The method 1000 begins at block 1001 with a mobilephone 150 positioned within an inspection area 106 of a kiosk 100. Atblock 1002, the mobile phone is powered up. At block 1003, the mobilephone 150 is placed within a camera mode. The mobile phone 150 must havea camera function to be placed within a camera mode. As shown in FIG.16, the lens of the mobile phone 150 is focused on a white wall 115 ofthe inspection area 106 wherein the total field of view of the camera ofthe mobile phone 150 is the white wall. In this manner, as shown in FIG.13, the LCD screen 153 of the mobile phone 150 is entirely white, ormore specifically, the entire LCD screen 153 of the mobile phone 150should be white unless the LCD screen 153 is damaged. At block 1004, theLCD screen 153 is inspected for damage such as cracks, pixel defects,discoloration and the like. Further, the luminescence of the LCD screen153 can also be measured to determine if the luminescence is performingat levels set forth by the manufacturer of the mobile phone 150. Atblock 1005, an optional electrical analysis is performed on the mobilephone 150 as discussed in more detail below. At block 1006, the value ofthe mobile phone is determined as discussed in more detail below.

An alternative method of the present invention is illustrated in theflow chart of FIG. 11. The method 2000 begins at block 2001 with amobile phone 150 positioned within an inspection area 106 of a kiosk100. At block 2002, the mobile phone is powered up. At block 2003, aterm is inputted into the mobile phone 150 for display on a LCD screenof the mobile phone 150. A preferred term is a telephone number fordisplay on a LCD screen 153 as shown in FIG. 14. The term may also be aword, characters, or like inputs. At block 2004, the LCD screen 153 isinspected for damage such as cracks, pixel defects, discoloration andthe like. The kiosk 100 inspects the LCD screen 153 for defects in thedisplay of the telephone number or like term. Further, the luminescenceof the LCD screen 153, particularly the telephone number, can also bemeasured to determine if the luminescence is performing at levels setforth by the manufacturer of the mobile phone 150. At block 2005, anoptional electrical analysis is performed on the mobile phone 150 asdiscussed in more detail below. At block 2006, the value of the mobilephone is determined as discussed in more detail below.

An alternative method of the present invention is illustrated in theflow chart of FIG. 12. The method 3000 begins at block 3001 with amobile phone 150 positioned within an inspection area 106 of a kiosk100. At block 3002, the mobile phone is powered up. At block 3003, aknown image is displayed on a LCD screen of the mobile phone 150. Oneexample of a known image for display on a LCD screen 153 is a nationalpark such as Yosemite National Park as shown in FIG. 15. An alternativeknow image is a start up logo of a carrier for the mobile phone such asthe well-known VERIZON logo or the AT&T logo. The known image may besent to the mobile phone by the kiosk 100 either directly throughelectrical connection or wirelessly by telephoning the mobile phone 150.At block 3004, the LCD screen 153 is inspected for damage such ascracks, pixel defects, discoloration and the like. The kiosk 100inspects the LCD screen 153 for defects in the display of the knownimage by comparing the displayed known image with a stored known image,preferably using optical recognition software. Further, the luminescenceof the LCD screen 153, particularly the telephone number, can also bemeasured to determine if the luminescence is performing at levels setforth by the manufacturer of the mobile phone 150. At block 3005, anoptional electrical analysis is performed on the mobile phone 150 asdiscussed in more detail below. At block 3006, the value of the mobilephone is determined as discussed in more detail below.

As shown in FIG. 8, a mobile phone 150 is placed within a fixtureassembly 142 that is preferably movable on tracks 143 within theinspection area 106. Also shown is an electrical connector dispenser 140with an electrical connector 141 for insertion into a data port of themobile phone 150 to conduct an electrical analysis of the mobile phone.The tracks 143 allow for a data port 151 of the mobile phone to bepositioned for connection to the electrical connector 141.

The visual inspection of a mobile phone 150 in the inspection area 106,as discussed above, is preferably performed by at least one camera 601.Alternatively, the visual inspection is performed by multiple cameras601-604 as shown in FIG. 6. A preferred camera 601 is a 1 megapixelmachine vision camera. If a single camera 601, as shown in FIG. 6A, isutilized in the inspection area 106, the camera 601 preferably ismovable to increase a field of view 625 of the inspection area 106 toinspect the mobile phone fixed in the fixture assembly 142. The camera161 is preferably movable along an arc-like track along a ceiling of theinspection area 106. Preferably the camera 601 is movable to inspect aLCD screen 153 of the mobile phone 150 to determine if the LCD screen153 is damaged as discussed above. The camera 601 is also movable toinspect a data port 151 of the mobile phone 150 to determine the type ofelectrical connector 141 for the mobile phone 150. Alternatively,mirrors are positioned in the inspection area 106 to permit a greatervisual inspection of a mobile phone 150 as the mobile phone 150 is fixedin the fixture assembly 142.

The fixture assembly 142 optionally operates as a weight scale to obtaina mass of the mobile phone 150 for use in determining a remunerationvalue for the mobile phone 150. For example, if the mass of the mobilephone 150 is less than set forth in a vendor specification for themobile phone 150, then one or more components of the mobile phone 150may be missing, such as the battery for the mobile phone 150.

Preferably, visual inspection and recognition software is utilized bythe kiosk 100 to analyze a mobile phone 150. In one preferred method, arecognition algorithm is applied to a specific make and model of amobile phone 150. The visual inspection and recognition softwaredetermines the borders of a mobile phone 150 under inspection todetermine the external dimensions of the mobile phone 150. The externaldimensions are utilized to determine a subset of possible mobile phonesfrom a master database of mobile phones stored in the memory 161 of thekiosk 100 or available online to the kiosk 100 using externalcommunications. The visual inspection and recognition software thenpreferably uses a set of secondary and tertiary features to furtherdistinguish the mobile phone 150. These secondary and tertiary featurescan include placement and size of the display screen, placements andsize of the keyboard, unique buttons, placement of ports, and otherdistinguishing features. Once an exact make and model of the mobilephone is determined, the visual inspection and recognition softwaresubtracts an image of the mobile phone 150 from an image of a perfectmobile phone for the same make and model. The result of the subtractionis preferably a quantifiable number of pixels that are calibrated intocategories of broken or missing parts, cracked screen, and low, mediumor high wear.

Alternatively, the visual inspection is performed using neural networkpattern recognition techniques to identify the mobile phone 150, thenfilter algorithms are utilized to determine defects such as crackedscreens. Further, those skilled in the pertinent art will recognize thatother visual inspection techniques may be employed without departingfrom the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Further, visual inspection optionally includes obtaining a heatsignature for the mobile phone 150. One preferred method of obtaining aheat signature of a mobile phone 150 is to raster a laser across themobile phone to characterize a heat decay profile of the submittedmobile phone 150. This heat decay profile is then compared to a heatdecay profile for a perfect sample of the same mobile phone 150. Theheat decay profile indicates the wear of the external surface of themobile phone 150, which is used in calculating the financialremuneration for the mobile phone 150.

The electrical analysis of a mobile phone 150 is preferably performedusing an electrical connector 141 connected to a data port of a mobilephone 150. Typically, a single port is used to charge a mobile phone 150and transfer data to and from a mobile phone 150. As shown in FIG. 8A,the kiosk 100 preferably has an electrical connector dispenser 140 thatincludes a plurality of electrical connectors 141 a-141 h since therecurrently is no single universal electrical connector for all mobilephones. Once the make and model of the mobile phone 150 is determined,either by visual inspection or user input using a user interface 118 asdiscussed below, the correct electrical connector 141 is dispensed bythe electrical connector dispenser 140 for connection to the data portof the mobile phone 150. The connection of the electrical connector 141to the mobile phone 150 is preferably performed automatically by thekiosk 100. Alternatively, the proper choice of electrical connector 141is illuminated or in some other way presented to the consumer for manualconnection of the electrical connector 141 to the data port of themobile phone 150. An electrical connector 141 connected to a data port151 of a mobile phone 150 is shown in FIG. 8B. Electrical analysissoftware is preferably utilized by the kiosk 100 to interact with themobile phone 150. The electrical analysis preferably determines if themobile phone is capable of activation, maintaining a charge, performingcorrectly, powering a display screen of the mobile phone 150, providingmake, model, serial number and other pertinent information about themobile phone 150, and other relevant information.

One method for determining a value of a mobile phone is an eight gradescale based on power up of the mobile phone 150, the liquid crystaldisplay (“LCD”) and the mechanical condition of the mobile phone 150.The grading is based on a yes/no response for the mobile phone 150.Table One is an example of such a grading table.

TABLE ONE GRADE POWER UP LCD MECHANICAL A Y Y Y B N Y Y C Y N Y D N N YE Y Y N F N Y N G Y N N H N N N

The recycling kiosk 100 preferably further includes a user interfacedevice, such as a touch screen display 118 projected on a display screen119 of the kiosk 100. The touch screen display 118 preferably includes akeypad, user selection buttons 115A-115D, soft keys, and other similarcomponents. The touch screen display 118 is used to enable quick andeasy access to various features and functions of the recycling kiosk100. The display screen 119 displays information in color, monochrome,or “gray-scale.” and is used to display elements of a user interface,advertisements, or other information. The recycling kiosk 100 preferablydispenses various forms of payment, including cash, credit cards, debitcards, chip cards, gift cards from the kiosk's host location or othergift cards, and other magnetic striped cards or electronic paymentmethods. In one embodiment of a user interface device of the recyclingkiosk 100, a telephone handset is included (not shown) to enable acustomer to communicate with advertisers, providers of productsadvertised on the recycling kiosk, and to access assistance in using therecycling kiosk 100. In other embodiments, a microphone/speakerarrangement is used for a similar purpose. The recycling kiosk 100 alsoincludes a digital camera to record the image of the user for purposesof complying with the Second Hand Dealer Laws of various States. Thekiosk 100 also preferably includes a supply of sealable plastic bags ina bag dispenser area 120 that have pre-printed barcode labels affixedthereto. The kiosk 100 also includes a bar code reader 125 to scan thebar code and associate it with a phone that is being transacted at thekiosk 100. The bar code reader and/or ultraviolet (“UV”) detector isused to scan an identifying bar code or other form of encodedinformation to identify the product model or product number. The kiosk100 also uses the barcode reader to read the barcode identification onthe inside of the battery pack. The UV detector is used for reading“invisible” barcodes in use by certain vendors such as Apple and others.The bar code reader, camera, and/or UV detector of the kiosk 100 isanother technique used to identify the product model, IMEI #, and/or FCCID. Alternatively, the kiosk 100 communicates with the mobile phone 150using BLUETOOTH or WiFi communications to test and if necessary erasedata from the mobile phone 150.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the main components of the kiosk 100. Aprocessor 160 is preferably in communication with the other componentsof the kiosk 100. The memory 161 preferably contains a database ofinformation on multiple mobile phones including images, physicalcharacteristics, prices and other similar information. The externalcommunications 167 preferably communicates through a wireless connectionor Ethernet with a network to receive and transmit information to aremote site. The power supply 170 is preferably received through aplug-in connection to a wall outlet. The mechanical components 165include the electrical connector dispenser 140, the bag/packagedispenser 120, the fixture assembly 142, and other similar components.The camera 161 or cameras, electrical connectors 141 and user interface118 interact with the processor 160 as discussed above. FIG. 7illustrates an internal back of a recycling kiosk 100. As shown aprocessor 160 is preferably a personal computer having a battery backup170 a, a wireless connection 167 for external communications, anelectrical connector 140, receipt dispenser 104 and a display screen119.

The processor 160 identifies the mobile phone 150 submitted forrecycling using information from the visual inspection and userinterface. The processor 160 also determines the proper electricalconnector 141 for connection to the data port 151 of the mobile phone150 using information obtained during the visual inspection or from theuser interface. The processor 160 also directs and receives informationfrom the electrical analysis of the mobile phone 150 performed using theelectrical connector 141 connected to the data port 151 of the mobilephone 150. The processor also determines a financial remuneration forthe submitted mobile phone 150 based on the visual inspection, theelectrical analysis and data stored in the memory 161 of the kiosk orinformation provided externally through the external communicationcomponent 167.

In one use of the kiosk 100, a consumer is asked to pre-bag, pre-box orplace a barcode label on the consumer electronic (“CE”) device at somepoint before or during the inspection process. The consumer isinstructed to use wheels, slides or levers to drop the mobile phone intoa bag, box or directly into a bin. If dropped into a bag or box, theconsumer is instructed to use wheels, slides or levers to seal the outerpackage.

Each kiosk 100 preferably bins mobile phones according to parametersincluding but not limited to: vendor/model, condition, value, visualquality, physical damage, water damage, locked or unlocked, carriercompatibility, frequency of phone, type of cellular standard supported(CDMA, GSM, etc.), or combinations of these parameters. The inventory ofeach kiosk 100 is then preferably automatically transmitted from thekiosk 100 to an online web posting whereby auctions, or live auctionsare held allowing buyers to bid and purchase specific bins from specifickiosks in real time. The bins are shipped directly from each specifickiosk 100 to the bid winner during the next time the kiosk 100 isserviced. Bins are preferably associated with a single model or group ofmodels. In other cases the bins are associated with a particular type ofphone (e.g. CDMA), or another specific-type grouping. Bins are alsoassociated with devices that are to be recycled for their materialvalue, and should only ship when the bin is full. While other devicesare binned to distinguish that they need to ship as quickly as possiblebecause the device has immediate aftermarket re-sale demand and thereal-time connection to the kiosk 100 enables real-time inventorytracking and binning of recycled devices

In one embodiment, the display of the kiosk 100 displays currentpurchase prices for different models of mobile phones. This currentpricing is used to encourage and provide incentive to customers to bringtheir used phones to the kiosk 100 for resale or recycling. The kiosk100 is in regular and periodic communication with a server to receivesuch data and update its display accordingly. The pricing data providedto the kiosk is called the Offer Price to the consumer, and ispreferably based upon aftermarket sales prices which vary on a regularbasis (e.g., daily) for each make/model of recycled device. The offerprice presented to the consumer is preferably determined by subtractingthe recycling fee from the pricing data provided by the aftermarketreseller.

The kiosk 100 also preferably monitors all of its consumables (paper,ink, etc.) and requests new supplies automatically so that the kiosk 100is substantially constantly operational. The kiosk 100 also preferablymonitors the inventory of items collected by the kiosk and provides ashipment report to the reverse logistics vendors to determine thenumber, size, and weight of items to be collected from the kiosk 100.

FIG. 2 illustrates a network topology 200 configured in accordance withan embodiment of a system. In one aspect of this embodiment, severalrecycling kiosks 202 are coupled via communications links 204 or 210 toa communications network 206. While two forms of connecting recyclingkiosks are shown in FIG. 2, several embodiments are anticipated.Examples of embodiments of recycling kiosks include various forms ofvending machines, Open Mobile Service Interface based kiosks, and otherretail automated machines. Also coupled to the communications network206 via a communications link 212 is a recycling kiosk server 214.

Transactions selected by customers at the recycling kiosks 202 or 208are routed to the recycling kiosk server 214. In another aspect of thisembodiment, the recycling kiosk server 214 is coupled to a database 215.The database 215 is preferably stored on the same or another recyclingkiosk server 214, or resides in a separate server (not shown). Onefamiliar with the relevant art will understand how software executing ona recycling kiosk server 214 is able to retrieve data stored in thedatabase 215, whether that database 215 is stored on the same orseparate servers. The database 215 preferably stores informationincluding unique identifiers that have been provided to customer via theTouch Screen user interface or by way of wired or wirelesscommunications to mobile device relating to vouchers, a personalidentification number associated with each unique identifier, atelephone number, a credit amount, an indication of whether the voucheridentified has already been used, and other pertinent informationrelating to providing recycling services on any recycling kiosk 202 or208. In one aspect of this embodiment, the database transfers mediacontent or executable applications to be delivered to the users' mobiledevice by way of wired or wireless communications.

In yet another aspect of this embodiment, the recycling kiosk server 214is coupled via a communications link to a biometrics server 216 and acontent server 218. The biometrics server 216 conducts various frauddetection and prevention activities, including prevention of fraudulentcredit cards. The content server 218 performs various activities,including storing user interface content and advertising for use on therecycling kiosks 202 and 208. One familiar with the relevant art willunderstand how content stored on the content server 218 is transferredvia various communications links and protocols to recycling kiosks 202and 208 for rendering the content.

The content stored on a content server 218 preferably includes images,Extensible Markup Language (“XML”) documents, hypertext markup language(“HTML”) documents, audio, video, text, etc., and instructions to enablea recycling kiosk 202 or 208 to render the content correctly. As anexample, advertising and other content specifically targeted to consumerdemographics on a kiosk or time-of-day basis is rendered on recyclingkiosks 202 and 208 after retrieval from the content server 218. Arecycling kiosk 202 located in a department store displays differentadvertisements than a recycling kiosk 208 located at a conveniencestore. Additionally, a recycling kiosk 202 located in a department storeshows different advertisements during weekdays than during evenings andweekends to target different demographics. Further, a recycling kiosk202 located in a sporting goods department shows differentadvertisements than a recycling kiosk 202 located in an electronicsdepartment.

Recycling kiosks 202 are preferably located in many public or otherwiseaccessible locations including shopping centers, street sidewalks, gasstations, DVD rental stores, grocery stores, and restaurants in additionto department and convenience stores. The recycling kiosk server 214 isalso coupled via a communications link 222 to a recycling kioskcommunications network 224. Multiple service provider systems 228 arealso coupled to the recycling kiosk communications network 224 viacommunications links 226. Examples of service provider systems 228include systems operated by eBay, cellular telephone companies, bankcardcompanies, and aggregators of services from service providers. Thesevarious service provider systems 228 operate independently on differentcomputer systems and may use different communications protocols. Therecycling kiosk server 214 is able to exchange information with multipleservice provider systems 228 independently or jointly and in parallel orsequentially despite using the same or different communicationsprotocols or system software.

A possible use scenario of the embodiment described in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2is shown in FIG. 3. At step 301 a customer elects to sell or recycle amobile phone. The customer checks to see if his mobile phone issupported for sale/refurbishing from a list on the screen of the kiosk.The customer activates the on-screen menu system and either enters thephone model directly or goes through a series of menus to determine ifthe phone is eligible for sale or only for recycling. After identifyingthe model phone, the customer may optionally at step 301 select acharity to which to donate proceeds and/or identify a fund raising groupso that appropriate credit can be given to that group. In otherembodiments, the steps can be done at a later time. In one embodiment,the kiosk 100 takes a picture of the customer and associates it with thephone and the transaction, to prevent fraud claims or to identifypotential customers who are selling stolen phones.

At decision block 302 it is determined if the phone is only availablefor recycling. If yes, (i.e. it is not on the list of phones availablefor reselling) the customer can insert the mobile phone into receptacle106 at step 303 and the phone falls into bin 112 for recycling. A taxvoucher might be presented through 107 for the recycled phone.

If the phone is supported for refurbishment/resale the customer is thenencouraged to engage the testing/rating operation of the system. At step304, the system has determined the correct connector to couple to thephone. Connectivity options and are not limited to cable, standard orproprietary connectors, hard docks, reading removable or externalphysical memory or other wireless methods like WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID,NFC, and the like. In one embodiment, the system includes a plurality ofconnectors for known phone models. Based on the input from the user asto the identity of the phone model, the system can select the correctconnector and offer it to the customer. In other embodiments, aplurality of connectors is available and identified (by name, color,etc) and the user is informed as to which one to use. In anotherembodiment, a universal connector is used to connect to the phone. Afterthe phone is connected, the system presents a cage or cradle in which toplace the phone. This is designed so that the phone is in a known orunknown initial position so that it can be visually inspected usingphotographic or other equipment.

At step 305 the phone is connected and inserted into inspection area106. If this has been done correctly, the customer is given someindication (e.g. a green light) and the system proceeds to step 306. Forinstance, the software may direct the consumer to place the device inthe “inspection bin” in a certain orientation. The consumer is thenasked to manually change the orientation. Alternatively, the user isasked to turn wheels or use slides or levers to change the orientation.The consumer may be asked to open a device such as a clam shell phone,open doors or view finders on video cameras, pop open features such asflashes, slide open covers, etc. and then place the item back in theinspection area. The user may also be asked to attach cables. The usermay also be asked to attach restraints and/or use wheels, slides and/orlevers to invoke restraint on the device.

At step 306 the phone is tested for operation using diagnostics andoperating via, for example, the OMSI interface. The diagnosticspreferably includes electrical and physical testing including testingthe phone's battery, screen, memory, button functionality and structuralintegrity.

In one embodiment, the phone is photographed and analysis software isused to identify scratches, cracks, wear patterns, dents, broken ormissing pieces, inclusion of features such as lenses, buttons,connectors, badges, labeling and/or branding. Identification may be doneby image comparison or other similar methods where the photograph takenof the phone is normalized and compared to a reference image. Otherinspection methods may be used in conjunction with visual and/orelectrical testing including weighing each device in the kiosk todetermine specific weight and use that data to further refineverification of manufacturer and verification of exact device model. Inanother embodiment, the photographic image is used to identify thecorrect manufacturer and model number/product number. Visualidentification could include any combination of the following:calculations based upon measurement, physical (e.g., mm, inches), pixelcount or other. Identification based upon phone dimensions,location/size of buttons, LCD and other physical characteristics. Onecamera or multiple cameras may be used to determine height, width, depthas needed. Identification based on OCR (Optical Character Recognition)of identifiers such as Carrier (for phone), brand, model, serial number,other identifiers. Identification based upon barcodes. Consumer may beasked to orient CE on its front, back, side and then asked to changeorientation as needed. Consumer may even be asked to remove CE cover(s),batteries and the like in order to gain access to identifiable items,such alphanumeric or barcode data. The kiosk 100 provides a way to usevisual inspection with electrical inspection to identify a device,determine its value, and reduce possible fraud. The kiosk 100 determinesa preliminary identification of the phone with the visual system, andthen present or light up the correct cable for that phone so theconsumer can plug in the correct cable. The kiosk 100 then confirms byelectrical test that the visual identification was indeed correct, thentests the phone to determine its functionality and value.

Identification is made by comparing collected information and comparingthat to a database. The correct model identity is used by the kiosk 100to determine the correct electrical connector from a database of devicespecification information for the purpose of performing electrical test,erase or re-programming of the device. For consumer electronic devicessuch as stereos, computers, DVD players, game consoles, etc., that canbe evaluated electronically, in addition to or instead of visuallyidentifying the device; it may be necessary to identify the cableconnector type for electronic inspection. This is preferably done byvisually identifying the dimensions and shape of a connector receptacle.This could also include identification of the pins or connector pointsin the receptacle. The kiosk 100 preferably automatically connects theelectrical interface to the mobile device or instructs the user how toconnect the electrical connector to the electronic device. In anotherembodiment, the image is electronically transferred to a human operatorwho performs a visual evaluation and grading of the cosmetic conditionof the phone. In another embodiment, if the customer does not agree withthe assigned grade or rating, the kiosk 100 includes a call button toprovide two way communications with a human operator to discuss therating.

In another embodiment, a “micro-kiosk” has the same facilities forvisual/electrical inspection but does not necessarily bin and store theproducts it evaluates. The micro-kiosk is used by an operator, perhapswith a group of discrete peripheral devices (computer, camera, aplurality of cable connectors, printer, barcode scanner, fingerprintreader, signature pad, etc.). This micro-kiosk requires an operator,store clerk, or technician, to complete transactions and guard againstfraud. The micro-kiosk is preferably a more appropriate solution than afull kiosk for some venues such as floor-space limited retailers,high-customer-clerk-engagement model retailers, and phone processorsand/or refurbishers.

In one embodiment, the kiosk 100 communicates with the carrierassociated with the phone to collect any information that could begermane to the device, including, for example, validation orauthentication, registered ownership, account status, time in service,and the like. In some cases, when the customer's identificationinformation does not match the registered owner information, the kiosk100 automatically contacts the assumed owner in some manner (automatedtelephone call, email, text message, etc.) to alert the owner of thephone of the possible transaction.

Another feature of an embodiment of the kiosk 100 is to determine ifthere is personal information on the phone. This is determined by thepresence of data in particular storage registers in the memory (e.g.,quick-key stored numbers) or by looking at file types (jpegs, mp3's,etc.), or just assuming all non-default storage locations must containpersonal data. The customer is offered the chance to erase the data fromthe phone. One option allows the customer to request that the data befirst downloaded and then sent to a location designated by the customer(e.g., email address, website, etc.). In another embodiment, there is aslot for the customer to enter a memory card (e.g. USB drive. memorystick, etc.) whereupon the kiosk 100 uploads the data to the memorydevice. In still another embodiment, the kiosk 100 offers a web locationfrom which the user retrieves the data at some later time if desired. Inanother embodiment, the user elects to have the data placed in anotherphone purchased by the customer at the kiosk 100 or in the location ofthe kiosk 100 or some other store. The customer preferably selects auser name and password to access the system provided storage location.

Based on the results of the diagnostics, the kiosk 100 assigns the phonea rating. The rating is a selection of one of a plurality of categories(e.g. excellent, fair. average, poor), a letter grade (A, B, C, D, F),or a ranking on a numerical scale. The kiosk 100 then accesses adatabase to determine a real-time value for the phone based on currentresale values. The kiosk 100 uses real time or batch connectivity forupdating pricing of used devices, connecting to an auction system orpre-auction system.

This data can be scraped from online sites such as eBay or Craigslist,it may be generated by the kiosk 100 and updated periodically, it may bebased on a consumer guide, or any other suitable method for determininga current value for the phone. The value is determined by a currentmarket price obtained via communication to the recycling server 214using the communications network 206. The recycling server 214 obtains acurrent market price for the phone from one of the service providers andstores, on a regular basis, market prices on the database. In theembodiment described in FIG. 2, a mechanism is available to updateaudiovisual or other user interface content or other aspects of therecycling kiosks 202 and 208. As an example, when content needs to beupdated, the content only needs to be updated at the content server 218.The recycling kiosks 202 and 208 retrieve the updated content via thecommunications network 206 from the content server 218. As describedabove, the content used by a recycling kiosk 202 is preferably the sameor different than content used by other recycling kiosks 208 or evenanother recycling kiosk 202. Once the value is determined, the value isprovided at step 307 to the kiosk. The kiosk 202 then offers thecustomer a price or other remuneration for the phone that is typicallyless than the resale value. In other embodiments, the kiosk 202 offersthe customer a price or remuneration that is at the current real-timemarket price.

At step 308 it is determined if the user wishes to accept the offer. Ifnot, the kiosk 100 proceeds to step 309 and opens the cage door andreleases the phone back to the customer. If the user wishes to acceptthe offer, the kiosk 100 proceeds to step 310. At a point where the useraccepts a price, the kiosk 100 may then lock down the inspection area toprevent further access to the phone by the user. The kiosk 100 thendisconnects any cables that have been attached. At step 310, the userindicates acceptance of the decision by confirming on the keypad ortouch-screen. In one embodiment, the kiosk 100 has a multi-stage processto determine user acceptance so that the customer can back out if amistake was made. At this point the kiosk 100 proceeds with deleting thepersonal data from the phone. In addition, once the transaction isconfirmed, the kiosk 100 tags the phone with a transaction number thatis associated with the diagnostic data and the transaction itself. Thisis preferably a printed adhesive label that is affixed physically to thephone and/or the loading of electronic data corresponding to thetransaction number onto the phone itself for traceability purposes.

At step 311, the kiosk 100 completes any additional testing anddiagnostics of the phone, disconnects the cable from the phone, andprints a receipt for the customer. Transfer of funds may be authorizedvia the kiosk 100 by crediting a customer credit card or account bydispensing cash, or by dispensing a voucher or coupon. In otherembodiments, the kiosk 100 issues a receipt to the customer who then cantake it to, for example, a store associated with the location of thekiosk, for payment. If the user has elected to donate the value of thephone to charity, the customer then is issued a donation receipt andsettlement is accomplished later with the charity.

At step 312 the kiosk 100 updates its inventory database and transmitsthe update via the communications network 206 to the kiosk server 214.

Each kiosk 100 bins the phones according to parameters including but notlimited to: vendor/model, condition, value of device, shipping priority,locked or unlocked, carrier compatibility, frequency of phone, type ofcellular standard supported (CDMA, GSM, etc), or combinations of theseparameters. The inventory of each kiosk bin is then be transmitted fromthe kiosk to and online web posting whereby live auctions can be heldallowing buyers to bid and purchase specific bins from specific kiosksin real time. The bins then are shipped directly from each specifickiosk 100 to the bid winner during the next time the kiosk 100 isserviced.

The generation of these online offers is preferably automated.Appropriate text for each model of phone is prepared in advance.Descriptions of the phone are also automated based on the perceivedcondition of the phone. Finally, the inspection photograph(s) isincluded in the online offer by electronically communicating them to thekiosk server. The diagnostics and testing information is provided aspart of the offer, as well as information about whether the phone islocked or unlocked, includes a sim card, expanded memory, or otherdescriptive information and features.

In other embodiments, the phones are first collected from the kiosk andthen put into a resale channel. In some cases, the phones may berefurbished, reconditioned, or upgraded prior to resale. In anotherembodiment, the kiosk 100 automatically updates the firmware in themobile phone while it is attached to the connector. Any updates orimprovements that can be made electronically are preferably accomplishedautomatically at the kiosk 100.

Many phones and recyclable devices include proprietary chargers. Oneembodiment contemplates the ability for the user to plug in the chargerand insert the connector into a receptacle so that the charger can betested as well. The system then tags the charger with the sametransaction number and includes its value in the price and resale.

The kiosk 100 not only rates the cosmetic condition of the phone, butalso preferably rates the condition of the battery. Once connected, thekiosk 100 determines the ability of the battery to hold a charge,measures the voltage and current, and assigns a rating to the battery aswell.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the operation ofthe system. The diagram of FIG. 4 is described in conjunction withembodiments of touch screen display images of FIGS. 5A-5E. At step 401the operation begins. The display screen 119 of the kiosk 100 is shownin FIG. 5A. An upper part of the screen may include a number ofselectable options such as Recycle My Cell Phone 501. Printer RecycleOffer 502, Computer Recycle Offer 503 (This may be a branded orsponsored recycle offer, such as from a single company such as Dell) andDevice Recycle Offer 504 (this button may be used for other devices andrecyclable items that are not covered by the first three buttons). Ifdesired, an attract loop (i.e. movie) may be provided in a lower region505 of the display. The attract loop may also be used to teach the userhow to use the system.

In one embodiment, the kiosk 100 can broadcast WiFi to push content toWiFi enabled phones. The system can make users aware of its existence byalerting them via such wireless transmissions. In addition, the kiosk100 could play and/or broadcast content for the store location and/orthird parties as an additional revenue source.

After the user selects the type of transaction at step 401, the kiosk100 moves to the next screen. For purposes of example, it is presumedthat the user has elected to recycle a cell phone. The user selects thetype of cell phone as shown in FIG. 5B by choosing smart phone 506 orcell phone 507.

At step 402 the user chooses a brand of phone, such as by selecting abrand in FIG. 5C. If the users' brand is not shown in FIG. 5C, a “more”selection is available. In one embodiment, a keyboard is provided andthe user can type in the brand, with an optional auto-complete featureprovided. At step 403, the user is presented with a number of models forthe particular manufacturer, as shown at FIG. 5D. The user selects themodel at step 403.

At step 404, the user is instructed to get a bag from bag bin 120. Atstep 405 the user places the phone in the bag and seals it using a ziplock or some other suitable means. In one embodiment, each bag haspre-printed bar code label affixed thereto. In another embodiment, thekiosk 100 can print out a bar-coded self-adhesive label that the usercan place on the bag. At step 406 the user scans the bar code using thebar code reader 125 of the kiosk 100.

At step 407 the kiosk may automatically bag the device or the userplaces the sealed bag into the inspection bin 106 of the kiosk 100. Atstep 408 the user is presented with a default value such as shown inFIG. 5E. This default value is for a typical phone of that type inunknown condition. The value may be determined by accessing a locallystored database or by accessing a dynamically updated database vianetwork communication between the kiosk and a central location.

At decision block 409 it is determined if the user wants to accept theinitial price. If so, the system proceeds to step 413. If not, thesystem proceeds to step 410 and a series of questions to determine apossible higher value for the phone. The user is first asked to identifythe carrier at step 410 (see FIG. 5F). At step 411 the user is askedother questions about the phone such as whether it powers on (FIG. 5G),if the display works properly (FIG. 5H) and whether the phone is waterdamaged (FIG. 5I). At decision block 411 a, the user is asked if data onthe phone should be erased. If the response is yes, the data is erasedand the system proceeds to step 412. If the response is no, the data isnot erased and the system proceeds to step 412.

At step 412, a new value is presented to the user. In some cases, thenew value is higher, while in others it may be lower, all depending onthe responses provided by the user. During this time, the kiosk 100preferably performs an automated inspection of the phone via a camerabuilt into the inspection bin. In other instances, the user is asked toplug the phone into a connector so that an automated electronic analysisof the phone can be accomplished.

If the user accepts the new value at step 412 or at step 408, the kiosk100 proceeds to collect personal information from the user at step 413.This may be accomplished by entering a customer loyalty numberassociated with a retailer where the kiosk is located, swiping acredit/debit card, by swiping a drivers license, or by manual entryusing a keyboard presented on the touch screen of the kiosk.

At step 414 the user selects one of a plurality of compensation methods,such as store credit, charge card credit discount coupon, etc. After theuser selects a payment method, the user is prompted to enter afingerprint by placing a thumb or finger on print reader 128 of kiosk100. At step 416 the user signs an electronic signature pad 130 on kiosk100 and the transaction completes at step 417.

In an alternate embodiment, the kiosk 100 provides a network ofinter-connected kiosks which communicate with centralized servers forthe purpose of proving real-time pricing for a plurality of electronicdevices that can be recycled using the kiosk 100, including largerelectronic devices such as personal computers, microwaves, or any otherrecyclable electronic device. The kiosk 100 implements functionalityrelated to pricing, credit and interaction, but provides a number ofdifferent implementations for receiving and transferring the recycledgoods. The kiosk 100 may also include a web version that can be aninitial entry into the system with physical transfer taking place inother methods.

The User Interface (“UI”) instructs users how to determine the value ofa recycled item or item being returned to a retail store for a trade-invalue.

The kiosk 100 uses a variety of inspection techniques to determine thevalue of the device digital media. The inspection techniques include thecombination of visual inspection, and electrical testing using standard(USB, HDMI, DVI, etc.) electrical interfaces and proprietary (Apple,Nokia, etc.) electrical interfaces for identification & classificationto uniquely identify the manufacturer and model number and softwarerevision.

The electronic recycling kiosk collects information that when compiledfor the retailer, can be used to substantiate their compliance withStates' eWaste and 2nd hand Dealer Laws.

The recycling kiosk 100 is also used to take personal information suchas a photograph and fingerprint to identify people selling pre-ownedgoods, and as needed provide this information to local law enforcementauthorities to determine if stolen goods have been moved through therecycling process, and by whom.

To prevent or reduce fraud, the system may incorporate a number of testsand analysis such as: weighing the device—this is prone to errors (case,no case, battery, no battery); visually inspecting the device to detectslight design features to detect fakes; visible light or laser scan adevice to derive an heat absorption/decay signature for a given device.The theory is that the decay signature is different for every make/modelof device and varies with the orientation of the scan on the samedevice. Fake or empty devices do not have the proper signature and willnot be accepted for immediate payment. In this case, the user has theoption to get paid after the phone is inspected by a human.

From the foregoing it is believed that those skilled in the pertinentart will recognize the meritorious advancement of this invention andwill readily understand that while the present invention has beendescribed in association with a preferred embodiment thereof, and otherembodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, numerous changesmodification and substitutions of equivalents may be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope of this invention which isintended to be unlimited by the foregoing except as may appear in thefollowing appended claims. Therefore, the embodiments of the inventionin which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined inthe following appended claims.

1. A method for analysis of a mobile phone and financial remuneration toa user for submission of the mobile phone, the method comprising:positioning a mobile phone in an inspection area of a recycling kiosk,the inspection area having a plurality of white walls; placing themobile phone in a camera mode wherein a LCD screen of the mobile phoneis illuminated in white to visually enhance the appearance of anydefects in the LCD screen; inspecting an image of the LCD screen of themobile phone obtained by at least one camera disposed in the inspectionarea to determine if the LCD screen of the mobile phone has any defectsand to define an analyzed mobile phone; and determining a value for theanalyzed mobile phone.
 2. The method according to claim 1 furthercomprising performing an electrical analysis of the mobile phone.
 3. Themethod according to claim 1 further comprising powering up the mobilephone.
 4. A method for analysis of a mobile phone and financialremuneration to a user for submission of the mobile phone, the methodcomprising: positioning a mobile phone in an inspection area of arecycling kiosk; powering up the mobile phone; inputting a term on themobile phone, the term comprising a plurality of characters, the termdisplayed on the LCD screen of the mobile phone; inspecting an image ofthe LCD screen of the mobile phone obtained by at least one cameradisposed in the inspection area utilizing an optical characterrecognition program of the recycling kiosk to determine if the LCDscreen of the mobile phone has any defects and to define an analyzedmobile phone; and determining a value for the analyzed mobile phone. 5.The method according to claim 4 wherein the term is a telephone number.6. The method according to claim 4 wherein the term is a word.
 7. Themethod according to claim 4 wherein inputting the term comprisesinputting a number on the keypad of the mobile phone.
 8. The methodaccording to claim 1 further comprising performing an electricalanalysis of the mobile phone.
 9. A method for analysis of a mobile phoneand financial remuneration to a user for submission of the mobile phone,the method comprising: positioning a mobile phone in an inspection areaof a recycling kiosk; powering up the mobile phone; displaying a knownimage on a LCD screen of the mobile phone; comparing the known image onthe LCD screen of the mobile phone with a stored duplicate of the knownimage stored on the recycling kiosk to determine any defects in the LCDscreen of the mobile phone and to define an analyzed mobile phone; anddetermining a value for the analyzed mobile phone.
 10. The methodaccording to claim 9 wherein the known image is a start-up image for thecarrier of the mobile phone.
 11. The method according to claim 9 whereinthe known image is an image of a national park.
 12. The method accordingto claim 9 further comprising performing an electrical analysis of themobile phone.